Advice Directly From Stacy and Clinton- Part 3
February 15, 2010 @ 6:00 am
Written by Lucie Amberg
I still have a bit more to share about meeting What Not to Wear’s Stacy and Clinton at the 
Discovery Communications 25th anniversary gala, which tells you just how gracious, charming, and generous they were.
Our conversation focused on how today’s busy woman can maintain a stylish look and how important it is to do so. Fans of WNTW know that Stacy and Clinton view style as a means for women to take control of their lives, and we can all benefit from this empowering message. After all, we can’t always control how long we wait at the pediatrician’s office, how much unexpected car repairs cost, or how many hours a frustrating work project takes, but we can certainly make sure we look good while we’re dealing with it!
Stacy was adamant that investing in yourself is really about time, not money. Since time is in short supply for most of us, a few simple guidelines can help you make the most of the moments you spend thinking about style. We’ve been talking about Clinton’s 4 Items That Don’t Belong In Your Closet, and here are the final two:
Item #3 That Doesn’t Belong In Your Closet = MOM Jeans
So it’s a common enough phrase, but what exactly makes something a MOM jean? It’s kind of like the old joke about pornography- you know it when you see it. Remember Jessica Simpson’s high-waisted disaster from last summer?
from ExtraTV.com
She’s taken such a beating for this look, so I’m not going to criticize her (much) here. But seriously, if those jeans can make someone so pretty look like that, I don’t want any part of them.
The waist is the major problem, but those oversized envelope pockets (which might as well be pleats, aesthetically speaking) don’t help. And the way the legs are tapered wouldn’t do anyone’s thighs any favors.
Instead, Clinton recommends jeans with the following characteristics:
- Mid-rise, which hits at a universally flattering point
- Dark wash- not only flattering but also polished and chic
- A bit of stretch (to keep things clean and tailored)
- Either a straight leg or bootcut, classic silhouettes that look both modern and timeless
Of course, there are thousands of jeans in the world, and if you want to find the right ones, you’ve got to try, try, try. On WNTW, participants sometimes try on 25 pairs before finding the right ones, but it is so worth it. We all know how fabulous our favorite jeans feel, and the confidence and comfort we have while wearing them.
Lauren by Ralph Lauren Bootcut Jeans ($59.50 at Nordstrom.com)
So follow Stacy and Clinton’s instructions, and give yourself the gift of time. They specifically recommended three hours a month- just three hours away from kids, jobs, and other responsibilities. Three hours are attainable, and they’re all you need to find that perfect pair of jeans. Because I know we all love shopping online (believe me, I LOVE shopping online), but for this mission there’s no substitute for the dressing room.
In order to maximize your shopping trip, though, you can definitely go online for information about specific brands, cuts, etc. FH’s own Jaime exhaustively covers this topic on her blog Denim Debutante, so read up and shop prepared!
And…
Item #4 That Doesn’t Belong in Your Closet = Sneakers
Okay, obviously we all need sneakers for certain occasions. But Clinton says think twice before wearing them outside the gym. His easy substitutions?
- A great flat for anytime
- A sandal for summer
- A boot for winter
That’s it! Three shoes and you’re ready to take on the world! And if you’re ever wavering (as I was this weekend), thinking, “Well, I’m just dashing to the store so my running shoes are fine,” remember that Clinton calls that look “Richard Simmons”.
Now, I have such a soft spot for Richard Simmons, who truly has been a fitness pioneer, but no. None of us need to copy his style.
Just a sampling of the more polished options Clinton suggests, in neutral colors and classic styles that can be worn for many years (and all on sale!):
L to R: Joan and David Ashling ballet flats ($179.95 to $98.97 at Endless.com), B2 by Bernardo Rita sandals ($65 to $19.99), Aerosoles Archive boots ($99.95 to $44.99 at OnlineShoes.com)
L to R: Seychelles Square Dance flats ($80 to $39.99 at Piperlime.com), Donald Pliner Kim slide sandals ($275 to $100), Wanted Turbo boots ($79.99 to $39.90 at Endless.com)
Many, many thanks to Stacy and Clinton for such wonderful tips! And if (like me!) you can’t get enough, remember to watch the new season of What Not To Wear, Friday nights on TLC!
Lucie Amberg is the Director of ZinaBeverlyHills.com.
RS image from xomba.com.
About the Author: Lucie Amberg
I actually agree with this. My gym shoes are strictly for the gym and outside fitness (jogging and walking my kids). I am a complete cute boot person until practically summer then cute sandals all the way.
So so sooooo agree! Seriously easy to look your stylish best with the right pair of jeans and those three footwear options. All that’s left is a cute top, and JEWELRY! Even the busiest days can be put together in a snap.
My only exception is Disneyland. We’re surprising the kids with a trip there over Spring Break (not telling them until we get in the car!). I’ll be sporting my best athletic shoes in the park, since a comfy and fun family vacation will trump chic feet.
.-= Twisted Tina´s last blog ..Trap a Little Edgy Style: Cage Earrings =-.
I am sorry but I have to disagree with Stacy and Clinton on rule 4. I think the right kind of sneakers can make a cute outfit look playful and stylish. I have a pair of sketchers that look great with a pair of dark wash jeans and a fitted T shirt. I also have a pair of Coach sneakers that add a dash of fashion to an otherwise relaxed outfit. We can’t always look professional wearing heels or boots, sometimes a girls just needs to throw on a pair on comfortable, yet fashionable sneakers with jeans and a cute t shirt and I feel there is nothing wrong with that.
Yes, I was wondering if someone would bring up the cuter sneaker options like Sketchers! With great accessories and clothes that fit well, that look is sporty and fun, but not everyone can make it work. I think these rules are the foolproof options that everyone can get even when they’re too stressed to give their wardrobe much thought. But many advanced fashionistas can make less tried-and-true options work!
And ditto, Twisted Tina- I also wore my running shoes at Disneyland. Luckily, Stacy and Clinton weren’t there to see me! Have a great trip this Spring!
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I really don’t understamd why anyone wants to take fashion advice from these two. The clothes they pick out for the unfortunate victim are usually very ugly, unflattering and plain boring. And, why on earth would any woman want to look like Stacy London?? She is hideous. What woman wants a gay man telling them what men think looks alluring on a woman? How on earth would he know?
It’s interesting to hear a different point of view. I usually love the things Stacy and Clinton pick out, and I think they both look great. Seriously, they can come makeover my closet anytime! More than anything, though, I appreciate that they try to bring out each woman’s best qualities. So many people talk about fashion and style only in critical terms, and I appreciate that WNTW takes a more empowering tone. But I guess that’s why there are 500 channels on the TV… something for everyone!